Do you ever have time to glance up as you walk near the L.L. Bean store on Cherry Street? If so, you will see beautiful, creative images of our city and state, drawn by the hands of children, teens and seniors from our community. This project is an example of collaboration between the City (public) and a developer (private).

The Burlington Town Center (BTC) art wrap project reminds us daily that 'building' ties to a community sometimes requires big bold moves - like putting 40 foot bunnies on your building. Perhaps that impact is hard to measure, but the upward gaze, the smile, and the community feeling that those 3 walls create draw us all together. The art wrap project exemplifies the commitment of Don Sinex, owner of the Burlington Town Center, to engage community members' voices and integrate them into the fabric and future of our city through the arts. The BTC development will have a resident local artist, Katherine Montstream as part of the creative team.

This collaborative project is just one of the significant community investments Sinex and the BTC have made to support our city's youth and those in need, Don Sinex has contributed to many organizations including COTS, Spectrum, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, Lund, Ronald McDonald House, Flynn Theatre Education & Classes for pre K-12, and many others. Apart from the art wrap project, perhaps the greatest impact has been achieved through the United Way Community Campaign, where $150,000 in pledges from Sinex and BTC has been multiplied by matches from other area businesses and organizations to support those in need in our community.

Philanthropy – whether through projects like the art wrap or direct donations through United Way – helps build supportive, caring communities while filling real needs for individuals and families. Meanwhile, revitalizing the BTC itself – to create homes and jobs, and to reconnect our community – will create significant economic activity to benefit the entire community. The redevelopment also will bring an opportunity for more connections through art, beautiful streetscapes, and dedicated community space.

The BTC can't wait to get started, so we can serve as an even stronger community connector!

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